You expect that your loved one is being well-cared for in a nursing home. But when you visit, are they showing signs of neglect? If you suspect a loved one in a West Virginia facility is being neglected, contact a nursing home abuse lawyer in Charleston, WV. Unfortunately, neglect in nursing homes happens more frequently than you may realize so pay attention to the signs there may be a problem.
In today’s blog, Attorney Chad Love of the Love Law Firm explains what signs of nursing home neglect to watch for.
Neglect and abuse in a nursing home are part of the same situation: a loved one is not being taken care of as you believed they would. If you are noticing changes in general well-being or changes in personality, you
may be thinking, “he/she was fine when he/she got here,” and now he/she seems “different.” Neglect may be why. Left unchecked, it could lead to a person’s condition deteriorating further, or even death.
The Signs You Need To Know
The CDC reports that “Neglect is the failure to meet an older adult’s basic needs. These needs include food, water, shelter, clothing, hygiene, and essential medical care.” When those are not met, the older adult can become physically ill or mentally sick, both of which can become more serious if left unchecked.
Nursing homes have certain standards of care. However understaffing, under-trained workers, and other contributing factors can lead to neglect of one or more of the residents. Many signs or symptoms can mean neglect, so watch for:
• Insufficient personal hygiene – does your loved one look unkempt (unshaven, hair uncombed, smell unclean)
• Lack of nutrition/insufficient food – weight loss or poor color(pallor)
• Dehydration – expresses thirstiness, few or no tears, dry sticky mouth
• Lack of mobility – may be a sign of fatigue from lack of nutrition or physical therapy
• Bedsores from not being turned regularly
• Unsanitary conditions, such as soiled bedding and unclean clothing
• Unexplained physical injuries, including fractures, falls, and bruising
• Unexplained psychological issues – acting fearful or anxious
• Untreated injuries and sores
• Swift cognitive decline
• Not taking prescribed medications
• Resident being left unattended for hours at a time- if questioned, does loved one indicate they have been doing nothing, do staffers indicate the senior did not do anything (engage in activities, attend meals or therapy, do staffers appear tired, evasive, or indifferent.
Nursing home residents who are left on their own for long periods may attempt to take care of themselves without help. Unexplained bruising or injuries may be a sign of lack of attention as the senior’s attempts will result in additional falls or injury especially if they have limited or no mobility.
Residents who develop fears may also be afraid of saying anything. This is evident in elders who were previously friendly and outgoing but developed a fear of caregivers or were simply intimidated by them. They may be afraid of speaking with a caregiver present for fear of retribution later. Observe carefully as residents with dementia may not be able to understand everything or explain what’s happening to them.
If you are feeling concerned, begin to take notes of dates and times when you note issues. Bring concerns to management early and see if you see improvements. If you are getting excuses or rationalizations that do not sit right with you, this may also be a sign you need to do something.
What You Can Do
When you notice something that isn’t right, you ask the nursing home staff or speak with the administrator. But in many cases, they won’t admit to neglect or any other type of abuse, may offer an excuse, or will likely attempt to cover up the behavior.
If you need help, you can contact the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Services at 800-352-6513. This hotline is available 24/7. You can also contact the state’s Ombudsman program at 1-800-834-0598. If your loved one is in danger or is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
You should also speak with a lawyer to learn more about your legal options on behalf of your loved one.
Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer In Charleston, WV
Because a nursing home lawsuit can be complicated, it’s important to have an attorney who understands the complexities of such a case. At the Love Law Firm, we are familiar with the problems that can occur with neglect. Chad Love is an experienced and caring nursing home abuse lawyer in Charleston, WV. Contact The Love Law Firm today at (304) 344-5683 for a free consultation. We’ve helped many West Virginians fight for their loved ones in nursing homes, and we’re ready to fight for your loved one.